4.1.2
The use of magnetic symmetry modes to solve
complicated multi-k magnetic structures
Branton Campbell1, Eric D. Gibbs1, Juan Lopez2, Harold Stokes1, Ashfia Huq3
1
Brigham Young University, 2Cal State San Bernardino, 3Oak Ridge National Laboratory
Group-theoretically derived symmetry-mode parameters (basis functions of irreducible
representations) are useful for describing a distorted crystal structure, such as might arise
from one or more symmetry-lowering phase transitions. Because real phase transitions
tend to activate a relatively small number of the symmetry modes available to a system,
this parameter set can simplify both the solution and description of a distorted structure.
Over the past decade, symmetry-mode techniques have become invaluable for
characterizing distortions that give rise to magnetic order parameters, particularly when
only one fundamental wave vector is involved. Here, we will explore the use of symmetry
modes to solve more complicated magnetic structures that superpose multiple wave
vectors.